This oven roasted asparagus recipe pairs crisp tender spears with zesty lemon and garlic for a simple and fresh spring side that goes with just about everything.
Holly’s Recipe Highlights
- Flavor: Bright lemon and savory garlic are the perfect flavor enhancers for sweet, crisp asparagus.
- Skill Level: Speedy and stress free, this beginner friendly recipe needs simple seasoning, high heat, and one large baking sheet for perfectly caramelized spears.
- Make Ahead: Prep now and roast later. Trim the asparagus ahead and keep it chilled until you are ready to cook.
- Serving: This simple 4 serving side dish is delicious with grilled chicken, salmon, pork chops, or steak.
Simple Side Dish Ingredients
- Asparagus: Choose firm, bright green spears with purplish tips. Thick spears tend to remain juicier in the oven, while thin spears may dry out if cooked too long.
- Olive Oil: Gives it great flavor and keeps the stalks from drying out. Avocado oil also works well.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic gives the best flavor, but garlic powder can be used in a pinch.
- Lemon Zest: Brings a bright citrus lift without watering asparagus down.
- Variations:
- For more flavor add red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, or toss in some prosciutto before cooking.
- Sprinkle with bacon bits or toasted sliced almonds. Grated Parmesan cheese is a tasty topping, just add after roasting so the cheese melts and does not burn.
- Drizzle balsamic vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.
How to Make Oven Roasted Asparagus
- Prepare and toss asparagus in oil and seasonings.
- Roast spears until tender-crisp and serve warm (full recipe below).
Roast Like a Pro
- Pat the asparagus dry after washing so it roasts and does not steam.
- A large baking sheet is the best way to ensure spears stay in a single layer for even cooking.
- Trim the woody ends so every bite has a tender texture.
- Do not overcook as asparagus can become mushy.
Save Every Spear
- Refrigerate leftover roasted asparagus in an airtight container for up to 3 days so it stays fresh for later meals.
- Reheat in the oven, toaster oven, air fryer, or under the broiler to bring back crisp edges. You can microwave just know it may soften.
- Chop leftovers into a frittata, toss into salads, or stir into a creamy seafood sauce.
Low Carb Mains That Love a Simple Veggie Side
Did you make this oven roasted asparagus recipe? Leave a comment and rating below!
Oven Roasted Asparagus Recipe
Tender crisp asparagus roasted with garlic, lemon zest, and olive oil makes an easy side dish that fits any meal. It is simple, fresh, and ready fast.
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 pound asparagus
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 clove garlic minced
- salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F.
- Wash and trim asparagus. Pat dry with a towel.
- In a medium bowl, combine oil, lemon zest, garlic, salt, and pepper. Toss mixture with asparagus and place on a large baking tray.
- Bake for 9 to 10 minutes or until tender crisp.
- Serve topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes
- Wash and trim the woody ends ahead of time and refrigerate until ready to roast.
- This recipe pairs perfectly with a sprinkle of Parmesan as a garnish or topping.
- Refrigerate asparagus for up to 3 days in a covered container.
- Reheat asparagus in the oven or crisp it up under the broiler.
- Use leftovers in other recipes, such as a frittata or in a seafood sauce.
Nutrition Information
Calories: 55kcal | Carbohydrates: 5g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 4g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 3g | Sodium: 2mg | Potassium: 233mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 858IU | Vitamin C: 7mg | Calcium: 29mg | Iron: 2mg
Nutrition information provided is an estimate and will vary based on cooking methods and brands of ingredients used.
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Perfect. This also works with fresh green beans.
This would be delicious with fresh green beans! Thanks for the suggestions, BoJe.